PULWAMA: In order to curb the menace of illegal mining in the district, the Enforcement teams comprising Mining, Revenue, Police and I&FC besides others continued operations against illegal mining across different locations. In a statement, DMO informed that A total of 211 vehicles/ machinery indulging in illegal transportation/ extraction of minerals have been seized from offenders and fine/ penalty to the tune of Rs. 72,23,000 has been realised from the offenders.
Besides, FIRs against 25 persons/ vehicles found to be involved in illegal mining have been lodged in various police stations of the district. The proactive stance taken by joint teams ensuring environmental sustainability and the preservation of natural resources has resulted in seizures and deterrence by booing the offenders.
Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr Basharat Qayoom issued unequivocal instructions to prevent and deter illegal mining throughout the district during various District Mining Task force meetings. District Administration has warned violators against resorting to illegal means and asked to follow proper procedural norms.
To ensure that various govt works are not hampered, disposal permits for a quantity minerals have been issued under rules thereby providing legal source of material for different developmental activities.
The permit holders have been cautioned not to violate the terms and conditions of the permits and in some cases the permits found to be violating the norms were cancelled immediately.
Moreover, a large quantity of minerals from legal blocks of neighbouring districts are being transported to other parts of Pulwama and Srinagar via Pulwama district. Such block holders have been directed to carry all requisite documents as mandated under law.
DMO Pulwama has advised people to desist from indulging in any kind of illegal mining, and procure the material from legal sources only otherwise stringent action shall follow against the offenders.